Holland plans heated cycle lanes

10/29/2012

Authorities in the Netherlands are considering introducing heated cycle lanes to encourage greater use of bicycles in winter, the BBC has reported. The scheme proposes to use geothermal energy to prevent ice forming on cycle lanes. While the plan is expected to cost up to EUR40,000 (US$51,800) per kilometer, planners expect the heated paths to offer savings in several areas, including a cut in the amount of salt needed to grit roads and even reduced accident costs. “We are very excited about the heated paths because they could prevent so much misery. If cycle lanes are frozen over for four weeks, that results in about 7,000 more accidents involving cyclists,” a spokesperson for the Dutch Cyclists Unions was quoted saying. A feasibility study is being planned for next year.